16 Delectable Thanksgiving Appetizers You Must Try

Thanksgiving appetizers are the perfect way to kick off your holiday feast, bringing family and friends together with tasty bites that set the mood for the main event. From classic dishes to creative twists, these starters are all about adding flavor and fun to your celebrations. Get ready to impress your guests with a spread that showcases the spirit of the season!

Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Almonds

Bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with almonds are a tasty treat that everyone will love. The sweet and salty combination makes them perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Plus, they are super easy to make!

Ingredients

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted
• 12 almonds
• 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
• Toothpicks for securing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Stuff each date with an almond and wrap it with a half slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick.
3. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Serve warm and enjoy!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts Skewers

Roasted Brussels sprouts skewers are a fun and tasty way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast. These little bites are packed with flavor and are sure to please everyone at the table. Drizzle them with your favorite sauce for an extra touch!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Thread the Brussels sprouts onto the skewers, packing them tightly. Place the skewers on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the sprouts are golden and crispy.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect appetizer for Thanksgiving gatherings. These little treats combine creamy brie cheese with sweet cranberry sauce, all nestled in a flaky pastry shell. They’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 package of phyllo pastry cups
• 8 ounces brie cheese, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the phyllo pastry cups on a baking sheet.
3. Put a piece of brie in each cup, followed by a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
4. Sprinkle chopped rosemary on top and drizzle with honey if desired.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Cheesy garlic breadsticks are a perfect way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast! They’re warm, gooey, and oh-so-delicious, making them a hit with everyone. Serve them with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir in mozzarella cheese.
3. In another bowl, combine melted butter and milk, then add to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Roll out to about 1/2 inch thick and cut into strips.
5. Place the strips on the baking sheet, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Herbs

Stuffed mushrooms are a fantastic way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast. These little bites are packed with garlic, herbs, and a creamy filling that everyone will love. They’re easy to make and will surely impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 20 large mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the mushroom caps on a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden.
5. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed mushrooms!

Savory Sweet Potato Rounds

These savory sweet potato rounds are a delightful twist for your Thanksgiving appetizers. Topped with creamy goodness and a sprinkle of chives, they are both tasty and easy to make. Your guests will love these little bites of comfort!

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped chives
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the sweet potatoes into rounds about 1/2 inch thick and place them on a baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender.
3. Once cooked, let them cool slightly, then top each round with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives before serving.

Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips

Looking for a fun twist on a classic dip? Pumpkin hummus is creamy, tasty, and perfect for your Thanksgiving gathering. Serve it with crispy pita chips for a delightful appetizer that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Pita chips for serving

Instructions

1. Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the hummus and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice or spices based on your preference.
3. Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Serve with pita chips for dipping.

Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta

Mini quiches with spinach and feta are a fantastic choice for Thanksgiving appetizers. They are easy to make and packed with flavor, making them a hit at any gathering. These little bites are perfect for guests to enjoy while mingling and celebrating the holiday.

Ingredients

• 1 package of pre-made pastry shells
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pastry shells on a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Evenly distribute the chopped spinach and crumbled feta into each pastry shell.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and feta until each shell is filled.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg is set and the tops are golden. Let cool slightly before serving.

Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese

Stuffed mini peppers are a fun and colorful appetizer for Thanksgiving. They are easy to make and packed with creamy goodness. Your guests will love these tasty bites!

Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Tortilla Chips

Spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips. Serve this delightful dip at Thanksgiving, and watch it disappear in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips and enjoy!

Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini

Herbed goat cheese crostini are a delightful way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast. The creamy cheese pairs perfectly with crispy bread and fresh herbs, creating a bite-sized treat everyone will love. Drizzle a little honey on top for a sweet finish that will impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 8 oz goat cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like thyme and rosemary), chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Honey for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
2. Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden and crispy. While the bread is baking, mix the goat cheese with fresh herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Spread the herbed goat cheese on each crostini, drizzle with honey, and serve warm for a tasty appetizer!

Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese salad skewers are a fun and fresh way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast. These colorful bites combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves, making them a hit with everyone. Plus, they’re super easy to assemble and look great on any appetizer table!

Ingredients

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 pound fresh mozzarella balls
• 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (6-inch or 8-inch)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers: Take a skewer and thread a cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is filled, leaving some space at the ends.
2. Season: Once all skewers are assembled, drizzle them with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve: Arrange the skewers on a platter and enjoy! These can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature.

Apple and Cheddar Cheese Platter

Nothing says fall like a fresh apple and cheddar cheese platter. The crispness of the apples pairs perfectly with the sharpness of the cheese, making it a delightful appetizer for Thanksgiving. Add some nuts or honey for an extra touch of flavor!

Ingredients

• 2 large apples (any variety)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup honey (optional)
• 1/4 cup mixed nuts (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like rosemary or thyme)

Instructions

1. Slice the apples into thin wedges and arrange them on a serving platter.
2. Cut the cheddar cheese into bite-sized cubes and place them alongside the apples.
3. If using, drizzle honey over the apples and cheese, and sprinkle mixed nuts around the platter.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

These vegetable spring rolls are a fresh and crunchy addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Packed with colorful veggies and served with a creamy peanut sauce, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for dipping!

Ingredients

• 8 rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup lettuce leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Water for soaking rice paper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a bowl, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Set aside.
2. Soak the Rice Paper: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10 seconds, then lay it flat on a clean surface.
3. Fill the Wrapper: Place a few pieces of each vegetable and some cilantro in the center of the wrapper. Fold the sides over and roll tightly from the bottom up.
4. Repeat: Continue with the remaining wrappers and filling. Serve the spring rolls with the peanut sauce for dipping.

Spicy Deviled Eggs with Paprika

Spicy deviled eggs are a fun twist on a classic appetizer. The creamy yolk filling gets a kick from a hint of spice and a sprinkle of paprika on top. These little bites are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering!

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus more for garnish
• Chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Hard boil the eggs: Place eggs in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 12 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to cool.
2. Prepare the filling: Peel the cooled eggs and slice them in half. Remove the yolks and place them in a bowl. Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Fill the eggs: Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites. Sprinkle with additional smoked paprika and garnish with chives or parsley if desired. Serve chilled.

Savory Pumpkin Soup Shots

These savory pumpkin soup shots are a fun and tasty way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast. They’re creamy, warm, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect appetizer for your guests. Serve them in small cups for a delightful touch that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pumpkin seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. In a pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, coconut milk, ginger, and cinnamon. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
3. Cook for about 15 minutes, then blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Serve in small cups and top with pumpkin seeds.